2023 Multisport Award Winners
Jeff Jewell Multisport Lifestyle Award
John Mitchell (San Diego, California)
The award is in memory of Jeff Jewell, a longtime massage therapist for Team USA who passed away in 2010 from brain cancer. He was one of the greatest cheerleaders of all time, and the award that bears his name honors athletes who have contributed and contributed to their sport. Serves as a role model for other athletes, especially young people. John Mitchell has made a huge impact on the community over the past 20 years, actively leading open water swim and cycling clinics at the Triathlon Club of San Diego, offering no-drop rides to encourage beginners, and providing full service. We provided bicycle storage and swimming lessons for children who were unable to attend.
Provided by John Mitchell
Lifetime Achievement Award
Clarinda Brueck (Washington DC, USA)
The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to USA Triathlon and the multisport lifestyle through performance, leadership, volunteerism, or instruction. Brueck founded the PC division with USA Triathlon and ITU, revolutionizing multisport for athletes with physical disabilities. She made history as the first disabled woman to complete the Ironman World Championships in 1997 and 1998, and won gold at the 1998 ITU World Championships. Her groundbreaking work has won several prestigious awards.
Mike Greer Spirit Award
Joni Briganti (Spotsylvania, Virginia)
Named in honor of Mike Grier, who passed away in July 2021, the Mike Greer Spirit of Multisport Award embodies the principles of positive spirit in sports demonstrated through acts of sportsmanship and leadership. We will recognize individuals who have A renowned Team USA athlete, USA Triathlon Certified Coach, and USA Triathlon Foundation Ambassador, Briganti is dedicated to the sport through service and positivity. She is known not only for her fun and enthusiasm on the course, but also for her volunteer work organizing indoor triathlons and supporting the Special Olympics.
Provided by Joni Briganti
Military Multisport Lifestyle Award
Elizabeth Hesse (Islamabad, Pakistan)
Hesse is the recipient of the Military Sports Award, which recognizes the multi-sport successes achieved by the men and women of the U.S. military who pursue the triathlon lifestyle. Hesse is an avid triathlete who has represented Team USA and earned USAT All-American honors while juggling demanding careers in the Army and Public Health Service. Based in Islamabad, she plans to organize triathlons in her hometown and introduce the sport to the community.
Courtesy of Elizabeth Hesse
Most Inspiring Comeback Award
Nathan LaSalle (Minneapolis, MN)
The Most Inspiring Comeback Award recognizes athletes who have returned to their sport after a traumatic or troubling personal situation.
LaSalle was seriously injured in a bicycle accident this year that left him with broken bones and brain trauma. Despite these setbacks, he showed remarkable determination to return to triathlon. A dedicated member and official of the University of Minnesota’s Minnesota Triathlon Team, he raised significant funds for the team’s national championship trip and supported his teammates during their recovery.
Provided by Nathan LaSalle
Volunteer of the Year Award
Jazmin Moezzi (Redondo Beach, California)
The Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes an individual or organization whose volunteer leadership has made a difference, mobilizing and uniting athletes, programs and organizations in the multisport community. Moezzi has dedicated his life to creating community and helping others.
Starting out as a competitive figure skater and tennis player, she found her true passion for triathlons while attending the University of Southern California. During the pandemic, she founded the South Bay Squad, which currently supports over 80 triathletes. Her influence extends to her volunteer work with Kids Enjoy Exercise Now (KEEN) LA, where she raised over $20,000 to secure funding for the first triathlon event.
Provided by Jazmin Moezzi
Doug Clark Multisport Lifestyle Award
Michanda Miles (Washington DC, USA)
This award honors decorated triathlete Doug Clark, who inspired others through his dedication and commitment to the sport, humility, and high ethical standards of conduct on and off the field. is awarded every year.
Miles is a dynamic triathlete, model, network project manager, and host of Tri Beginner’s Luck, recognized as the best podcast for beginners by Triathlete Magazine. Known for her charismatic and motivational presence, she excels in endurance sports and public speaking, creating an inspiring environment for athletes. Her podcast supports novice triathletes, encouraging them to embrace their journey and shine brightly.
Provided by Michanda Miles
